Rebellion+Losses+Bill

__**Rebellion Losses Bill**__
This controversial bill was introduced by Louis Lafontaine, who was the leader of the government //__Reform party__// in February of 1849. The purpose of this was to compensate for Lower Canadians who lost property or possessions during the rebellions of 1837-1838. Total cost of damages done by Upper Canada’s rebels was 100,000 pounds. Taxpayer’s money was used to repay the debt.

//__Tory citizens __// felt that the bill was a sign of the French dominating them, and they criticized the choice to make the payment. A technicality in the bill excludes those who were caught committing acts of high //__treason__//; they did not receive any compensation for their losses. The Bill was passed by a majority of the Assembly, and then had to be passed by Governor General Lord Elgin. The Tories demanded that he reject it, but he denied the request. This action caused the outraged Tories to riot for one week, and burning down the parliament buildings in Montreal which involved thousands of people. The bill was still passed and payments were made. The riots caused the seat of government of the Province of Canada was moved from Montreal to Toronto.


 * __Glossary__**

Reform party: Political movement during 1830-40’s urging for Responsible Government.

Tory citizens: Member or supporter of the Conservative party in Canada

Treason: The crime of betraying or slandering one's country, especially by attempting to kill the sovereign or overthrow the government.